Marriott have launched their own online marketplace for activities and local knowledge

In an ambitious attempt to zone in on enriching, local experiences for their guests, Marriott’s considerable network of properties around the world have been tied together by the roll out of an online platform dubbed “Marriott Moments”, seeking to offer local-area expert recommendations, bespoke categories and hand-curated lists of things to do across various destinations. Area expects, hotel associates, global partners and even a few celebrities are adding to the piles of content guests can find on the platform, which includes bespoke categories offered to guests based on passion points, types of travel companions and personality traits ranging from “Pop-Culture Vulture” to “Young, Broke & Fabulous”.

Perhaps the biggest function is the ability to purchase options from the hand-curated lists, making it an online marketplace more than anything else. There’s also a connection with Facebook Messenger, which allows guests to find and book experiences via the app in addition to chatting with Marriott Rewards or SPG to get location-based recommendations.

“Travel is made up of the places you stay, the activities you do and the people you meet”, said Global CCO of Marriott International Stephanie Linnartz. “With 6,500 hotels located around the world, Marriott is now helping travellers get more out of their trips. Now, with the expansion of Marriott Moments to everyone, whether they are a guest of ours or not, we are building a global culture of adventure seekers who can pursue their passions”.

The platform currently has a bank of over 100 recommendations from actors, athletes, award-winning chefs and a few others, from Lea Michele musing on her favourite museums, hikes and concert venues in L.A and New York City, to Gus Kenworthy writing on his favourite off-the-beaten-path museums in Paris, Boston and London. Foodies should get a lot out of this one, with access to expert chef favourites, like Eric Riperts favourite food markets, restaurants, and jazz clubs from Puerto Rico and Chicago to Bhutan and Marrakech. Thanks to a partnership with online food community Eatwith, Marriott Moments guests can also book feasts around the world, like an intimate family dinner in Rome, or a pastry class in Paris.

On-property activities are also included for guests to take part in, with an example being a private Champagne Sabering in Miami, or a Mediterranean cooking class at the St Regis Bal Harbour.